Anyone looking to take on trucking jobs in Alabama will need to meet the CDL requirements of the state. Commercial drivers applying for the Commercial Driver License (CDL) will apply for it with the Alabama Department of Public Safety. Specifically, they will go to the Driver License Division. Before they do this, they will have to complete a few steps first.

Preliminary Steps for Applying for the CDL

The first thing that Alabama applicants will want to do is visit their doctors so that they can fill out the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Medical Examination form. They will need to take this certificate with them when they present themselves to apply for their CDLs. At that time, they will also be able to take the written test, so they will have needed to study Alabama’s Commercial Driver License Manual beforehand.

The Application Process

With their DOT Medical Examination Certificates in hand, they can now begin the application process at the Driver License Division of the Department of Public Safety. They will also need to take the following items with them:

• Their current, valid Alabama driver licenses• Proof of a valid Social Security Number• The $25 fee to take the written test• The $53.50 fee for the license• The extra fees for any endorsements

After applicants pass their written tests, they can receive a permit that will allow them to take some time to practice driving the commercial vehicle. When the applicants are ready, they may make an appointment to take their road tests. The fee for this test will be $20. They will also need to present proof of insurance before they can take this skills test.

The Road/Skills Test

The road/skills test is comprised of three areas. The first area applicants will be tested on is their ability to effectively inspect their vehicles. They must be able to demonstrate that the vehicle is safe to drive. With this completed, the applicants will be able to show their testers how well they can handle the vehicle on the road. The last part of the examination concerns how well they know the rules of the road. This includes the ability to read signs and demonstrate their knowledge of the driving laws and the regulations. The general knowledge test covers information in the Alabama CDL Manual. Specific tests may also be required, depending on the clearances that you are working to receive. These tests include the combination vehicle test and the hazmat test. Completion of these tests will direct you toward the actual skills test. You will be expected to show skills in pre-trip, control, and driving.